DHAKA: The Bangladesh Cricket Board on Thursday confirmed that the national side will not travel to India to take part in the ICC T20 World Cup.
According to sources, a meeting between Bangladesh’s Sports Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul and national team players has concluded. Following the discussion, Dr Nazrul confirmed that the Bangladesh team will not travel to India for the World Cup.
“We want to play,” the sports adviser said, adding that Bangladesh still hopes the International Cricket Council (ICC) will consider and accept its position.
Dr Asif Nazrul stated that the government and the cricket board remain firm on their stance due to serious security concerns in India.
He said the ICC had not adequately acknowledged Bangladesh’s reservations, while the Indian government had also made no meaningful effort to address their concerns.
He further clarified that the decision to boycott the tournament in India was taken by the government. Bangladesh has requested that matches be held under a hybrid model, stressing that the team is willing to participate if the venue is shifted to Sri Lanka.
“The players have been taken into confidence and they agree with our position,” he added.
Meanwhile, BCB President Aminul Islam said the board would continue pursuing the matter until the end, calling it Bangladesh’s legitimate right.
“We will not go to India. We want to play in Sri Lanka,” Aminul Islam reiterated, adding that the BCB would once again approach the ICC.
Sources said senior government officials and BCB representatives are expected to hold a press conference later to further explain the decision.
